[Libs-Or] What is in the Stimulus Bill for Libraries?

[Jim Scheppke]

Here is an excerpt from informative report we received today from ALA:

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Here are some examples of provisions included in the $789 billion economic
stimulus that can directly benefit libraries:

$7.2 billion for broadband to increase broadband access and usage in
unserved and underserved areas of the nation, which will better position the
U.S. for economic growth, innovation, and job creation. This includes $200
million in competitive grants for expanding public computer capacity at
public libraries and community colleges.  Additionally, this includes $650
million for DTV, of which $90 million may be used by organizations,
including libraries, for education and outreach to vulnerable populations
including one-on-one assistance for box installation.

$53.6 billion for the State Fiscal Stabilization Fund, including $39.5
billion to local school districts using existing funding formulas, which can
be used for preventing cutbacks, preventing layoffs, school modernization
(school libraries will benefit from this), or other purposes; $5 billion to
states as bonus grants for meeting key performance measures in education;
and $8.8 billion to states for high priority needs such as public safety and
other critical services (including public libraries), which may include
education and for modernization, renovation and repairs of public school
facilities and institutions of higher education facilities.

An additional $120 million for the Older American¹s Act to provide community
service jobs at nonprofit and public facilities including libraries to an
additional 24,000 older Americans.

An additional $130 million for the Rural Community Facilities Program to
provide loans and grants for rural community facilities including libraries.
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To see the full report: <http://www.wo.ala.org/districtdispatch/?p=1931>.

If you are interested in competitive grant possibilities, I would suggest
you call the office of your Congressman to ask for information and
assistance. --> Jim

Jim Scheppke, State Librarian
Oregon State Library
250 Winter St. NE
Salem, OR 97301
503-378-4367
(fax) 503-585-8059
jim.b.scheppke at state.or.us